2009 Audi S8 vs. 1991 BMW Z1
To start off, 2009 Audi S8 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 5,204 cc (10 cylinders), 2009 Audi S8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi S8 (450 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1991 BMW Z1. (175 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW Z1. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 BMW Z1 weights approximately 75 kg more than 2009 Audi S8.
Because 2009 Audi S8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1991 BMW Z1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi S8 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Audi S8 (540 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW Z1. (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi S8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW Z1. 2009 Audi S8 has automatic transmission and 1991 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1991 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi S8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi S8 | 1991 BMW Z1 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | S8 | Z1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1991 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5204 cc | 2497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 450 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 540 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | AWD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5070 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2450 mm |
